
Reach for this book when your teenager begins to question the authority or ethics of the adults in their life, particularly during moments of political or social awakening. It is an essential resource for families navigating the transition where a child moves from being an extension of their parents to an individual with their own moral compass. The story follows Mari, the daughter of a Senator running for President, as she discovers that her father's public platform conflicts with her personal truths and the needs of her community. This contemporary novel explores themes of honesty, Latinx identity, and the courage required to speak out even when it risks family harmony. It is a realistic and empowering look at the complexities of loyalty for readers aged 12 and up.
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Sign in to write a reviewThemes of systemic bias and the political use of cultural identity.
Occasional mild profanity consistent with teen realistic fiction.
The book deals directly with political corruption, immigration policy, and the exploitation of cultural identity. The approach is realistic and secular, grounded in the modern American political landscape. The resolution is hopeful but acknowledges the permanent changes in family dynamics that come with standing up for one's principles.
A high schooler who feels they are living a double life to please their parents, or a student interested in activism and social justice who is beginning to see the 'cracks' in the systems around them.
Parents should be prepared for themes regarding the ethics of 'image' versus 'truth.' There are scenes involving intense media scrutiny and parental manipulation that are worth discussing. A parent might notice their child becoming unusually quiet during family discussions about values, or conversely, becoming more vocal and argumentative about political or social issues they once agreed on.
Younger teens will focus on the drama of the campaign and the romance, while older teens will deeply resonate with the philosophical conflict of being a 'prop' in someone else's story.
Unlike many political YA novels, this focuses specifically on the intersection of Latinx identity and the American dream, questioning who is left behind when we chase power.
Mariana (Mari) Ramos is the daughter of a high profile Senator running for President. As she travels on the campaign trail, she is forced to maintain a curated, perfect image for the media. However, as she reconnects with her roots and sees the impact of her father's policies on her community, she begins to realize that the man the public sees is not the man she thought she knew. She must decide whether to remain silent for the sake of the campaign or find her own voice.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.